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For as long as I can recall my Mini makes a high pitched bark ? whenever I start it after it's been resting. Generally clears once been running for a while. How do I decipher which of the 3 it is. Fan belt has bit more deflection than I would like but can't get it any tighter. Cheers. Mark

Take the fan belt off and see if the noise goes away, then you've narrowed it down to that area.

Then, while running and making the noise, pour a little water on to the fan belt, if the noise then goes away, it'll be the belt.

I doubt the alternator would 'squeal' however the water pump may. I'd also suggest replacing the fan belt as if it's been doing it a while, it's likly glazed and so will slip very easily now. Also, have a good look at the Vs in the pulleys as these can wear too.

I'd have a guess and say that if it only does it for a short while after starting, it will be the belt slipping on the alternator pulley.

Agree with Spider. A squirt of WD40 will also test the belt. The belt could be glazed or you have one that is wider than it should be.

Maybe the belt needs tightening.

Also check the in-plane alignment of all three pulleys.